Questions Mount Over Thailand’s 1.18 Billion Baht Aircraft Purchase
Questions Mount Over Thailand’s 1.18 Billion Baht Aircraft Purchase
BANGKOK, May 7, 2026 — A Thai company awarded a controversial government aircraft procurement contract has alleged links to the Bhumjaithai Party, according to a source familiar with the matter, intensifying scrutiny over multimillion-dollar aviation purchases now facing anti-corruption complaints.
Forth Vending Co. won a contract from Thailand’s Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation to procure two Czech-built Let L-410 NG transport aircraft at a combined cost of 1.18 billion baht ($32 million).
The company is reportedly controlled by businessman Pongchai Amatanon, who has been linked by critics to Bhumjaithai, a key coalition party associated with former public health minister and current Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. Pongchai previously served on state enterprise boards during periods when senior Bhumjaithai figures held cabinet positions.
The procurement has sparked controversy after reports suggested the aircraft were purchased at prices significantly above market value. The Let L-410 NG aircraft were reportedly acquired for about 590 million baht each, compared with an estimated manufacturer price of around 227 million baht per aircraft.
The Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation has not publicly responded to the allegations.
Forth Vending Co., best known in Thailand for operating Tao Bin automated beverage vending machines, is also facing questions over the bidding process used in the procurement. Reports said the controversy contributed to the resignation of former department director-general Rachen Silparaya following his transfer from the agency.
Separately, another supplier, M-Landarch Co., secured a contract to provide two Cessna C408 SkyCourier aircraft for 1.31 billion baht in total. The aircraft were reportedly purchased at approximately 655 million baht each, compared with an estimated manufacturer price of around 178 million baht per unit.
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has reportedly received formal petitions requesting investigations into both procurement projects, focusing on pricing transparency and whether state funds were used appropriately.
The controversy comes amid broader public scrutiny of government spending and procurement practices in Thailand, particularly involving projects linked to politically connected figures.
